Sunday, January 20, 2013

A year and a half ago, I remember reading a blog post by Philly-based author and beer blogger Lew Bryson. He talked about "The York Curse", whereby establishing a successful brewery in York, Pennsylvania seemed to be impossible. Many had tried; none had made it. At the time of his post, another start-up had just come on the scene: Mudhook Brewing Company. Lew said that if Mudhook were to still be in business in January of 2013, they would have broken "The York Curse". Well, I just checked my calendar, and the time has come to congratulate Mudhook! Way to go, guys!

Mudhook's Storefront

The brewpub is located on the beautiful Cherry Lane, and rather uniquely, it also connects to Central Market York, which is where the brewing actually occurs. The inside space is intimate (there might be 20 tables) and has a warm, inviting atmosphere. It is perfect for a casual dinner with a group of friends. Their pub fare is making me hungry just thinking about it.

So what's a "mudhook" anyway? Well, they explain that on their site. It's an anchor, which is exactly what Mudhook wanted their brewpub to be for Central Market York: the anchor, the premier place to go in York. In somewhat of a twist, they chose to use a fishhook for their logo, rather than an anchor.

And of course, I've got to talk about their beer! Each of the beers they offer is named in keeping with a fishing theme, which ties in with the fishhook in their logo. Their anchor brews (ha!) include The Panfish Pale Ale, The Hook Hopper IPA, The Redeye Irish Red, and The Deep Sea Stout. They also throw in some seasonal brews, and I have to say, I absolutely love their Oktoberfest (pictured below). They also offer a nice selection of local wines, which is good for my wife who does not like beer.

Mudhook's Oktoberfest is Extremely Tasty

Mudhook has certainly contributed to York's recent cultural upswing. If you live in the Greater York, PA area or happen to be visiting, I recommend that you plan on checking out this atmospheric brewpub. In fact, schedule permitting, I'd be happy to grab a burger and brew with you. Hit me up at JustinsBrewReview@gmail.com, or let me know via Facebook, Twitter, or Google+.

Mudhook, we raise our glasses to you for breaking "The York Curse". Here's to many more years of success. Prost!